Aflion Iceberg vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Iceberg and Cherry MX Orange are both compelling options for users seeking a linear switch experience. The Aflion Iceberg, crafted by a relatively new manufacturer, impresses with its exceptional smoothness and satisfying feel, thanks in part to its two-stage spring design that provides a distinct "clacky" and "snappy" characteristic. This switch's feathery touch makes it ideal for those who appreciate a delicate yet responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, a modern revival of the original MX Orange, incorporate enhancements from the MX2A generation, ensuring improved performance to meet the growing demands of enthusiasts. Although specific auditory characteristics are not listed for the MX Orange, its reputation suggests a balanced feel that appeals to both gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the innovative and nuanced handling of the Aflion Iceberg or the classic reliability and performance of the Cherry MX Orange. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Iceberg Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Iceberg and Cherry MX Orange switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The Iceberg features a polycarbonate top housing that is known for its rigidity, resulting in a sharper and more defined sound profile. This stiffness allows for clearer and more resonant audio output, making it particularly suitable for users who prefer a crisper keystroke sound. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange is equipped with a nylon top housing, recognized for its softer composition that absorbs sound more effectively. This characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which might appeal to those who favor a more muted and rounded auditory feedback during typing sessions. Thus, while the Iceberg allows for luminous RGB effects due to its clear housing, the MX Orange favors a warmer sound experience.

When we examine the bottom housings of both switches, we find that both the Iceberg and the MX Orange feature nylon as the material of choice. This commonality results in similar auditory qualities attributable to the characteristics of nylon. It is well-established that softer plastics like nylon contribute to a more substantial and impactful sound, enhancing the tactile experience of typing, particularly upon bottoming out. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the use of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that both switches will produce a rich and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed down.

In summary, while the Aflion Iceberg and Cherry MX Orange switches diverge in their top housing materials, where the Iceberg employs polycarbonate and the MX Orange utilizes nylon, they converge in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a sound profile that blends the clarity of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon. Users can expect a dynamic auditory response when typing on these switches, albeit with different tonal qualities influenced by their respective top materials. For those who appreciate a sharp sound, the Iceberg will satisfy, while those who prefer a deeper, fuller sound may gravitate towards the MX Orange, yet both will deliver satisfactory auditory experiences due to their nylon lower housings.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom-out forces emerge. The Iceberg switch has a notably light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for extended use, whether for typing or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer touch. However, the bottom-out force for the MX Orange is unknown, making a direct comparison in that regard more challenging. Overall, the Iceberg switch is the lighter option, while the MX Orange is heavier, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback and typing experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they share the same measurement from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience and key response when using either switch, making them equally suitable for those who prefer consistent linear feedback during typing or gaming. Since the travel distances are identical, this aspect will not differentiate the two switches, allowing users to choose between them based on other factors, such as feel or actuation force, rather than travel distance alone.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Aflion Iceberg linear switch stands out for its distinct sound profile, characterized by a clacky and high-pitched nature. When you press these switches, they emit a sharp, snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive, making each keystroke an auditory delight for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. This auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, providing satisfaction with every keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have a defined sound profile mentioned, which may suggest they may offer a more subdued or neutral auditory experience compared to the Iceberg. However, keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, meaning similar results could be achieved depending on your setup.

When it comes to feel, the Iceberg switch excels with its snappy, feathery, and subtle characteristics. The snappy design makes the switches highly responsive, allowing for a lively typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. With a feathery touch, these switches require minimal force to press, greatly reducing finger fatigue during extended use, whether for gaming or typing tasks. The subtle resistance offers a nice balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for a shared environment. As for the Cherry MX Orange switches, their feel is not described, leaving an unknown factor in how they compare. Therefore, while the Iceberg offers a well-defined tactile experience, the absence of feedback on the MX Orange's feel creates uncertainty in drawing a direct comparison.

In conclusion, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is a strong contender for those who prioritize sound and feel in their typing experience. Its clacky, high-pitched sound adds an engaging auditory element, while its responsive and lightweight characteristics make it a pleasure to type on. The Cherry MX Orange switches, lacking specific details on sound and feel, present a mystery but could potentially offer a different experience altogether. Ultimately, while both switches may appeal to different preferences, the Iceberg’s defined qualities set a high standard, and enthusiasts can expect comparable results in sound depending on their keyboard configuration.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Iceberg linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the specific use cases. If you favor a light and responsive switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the Iceberg is an excellent option, especially if you find yourself typing or gaming for extended periods. Its snappy and feathery feel can reduce finger fatigue, making it beneficial for long sessions of use. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more traditional yet enhanced typing experience that exhibits the quality associated with Cherry switches, the MX Orange, with its legacy backing and improved design, may be the right choice for you. Although the sound profile of the MX Orange isn't explicitly described, its design prioritizes a balanced feel, which might suit environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prefer the lighter, more spirited Iceberg or the classic reliability of the MX Orange.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Iceberg Linear

$3.50

$3.07 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more